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Photo of Akeem Ayers
Grade
7.89 ?
  • 4.88 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 18 REPS
    Top Performer
  • 31.0 INCH
    Top Performer
  • 116.0 INCH
    Top Performer
  • 7.49 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 4.28 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 11.93 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 6'3" Height
  • 33" Arm Length
  • 254LBS. Weight
  • 9" Hands

Overview

Ayers is very impressive on the hoof and he has the speed and athleticism to make an immediate impact at the next level. He has the range and ball skills to play strong side linebacker in a 4-3, and the balance and closing burst to play outside linebacker in a 3-4. He lacks the lower body strength to be stout against the run, but uses his long arms to keep blockers away from his body and flashes the ability to quickly shed. Ayers is a versatile athlete with great measurables that projects to be selected in the middle of the first round.

Analysis

Strengths

Ayers is tall with a thick muscular build. Possesses the speed to make plays from sideline-to-sideline. Very capable edge rusher that shows good bend and a closing burst. Very athletic kid that has the ball skills to make interceptions and flashes playmaking abilities. Delivers violent shots tackling and uses his length to make plays even when he is out of position.

Weaknesses

A little late reading his keys and can get caught out of position. Does not have the lower body strength to blow up blockers in run support. Lacks consistent footwork in his back pedal and allows tight ends and backs to get behind him at times. Tends to tackle a bit high.
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Grade Title Draft (Round) Description
96-100 Future Hall of Famer Top Pick A once-in-a-generation type prospect who could change how his position is played
85-95 Immediate Starter 1st An impact player with the ability/intangibles to become a Pro Bowl player. Expect to start immediately except in a unique situation (i.e. behind a veteran starter).
70-84 Eventual Starter 2nd-3rd A quality player who will contribute to the team early on and is expected to develop into a starter. A reliable player who brings value to the position.
50-69 Draftable Player 4th-7th A prospect with the ability to make team as a backup/role player. Needs to be a special teams contributor at applicable positions. Players in the high range of this category might have long-term potential.
20-49 Free Agent UDFA A player with solid measurables, intangibles, college achievements, or a developing skill that warrants an opportunity in an NFL camp. In the right situation, he could earn a place on a 53-man roster, but most likely will be a practice squad player or a camp body.
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